More than 60 apprentices are wanted for a range of roles as part of a major recruitment drive by Westmorland and Furness Council and Cumberland Council.

The councils are offering the opportunity to launch a career in local government, with entrants to obtain apprenticeships in a myriad of roles, including civil engineering, highways maintenance, adult support care, customer service, business admin, project management, and more.

The qualifications range from level two to level four.

Prospective applicants can apply until midnight on Sunday, March 24, by submitting their application online.

According to the councils, many successful applicants progress to secure permanent roles, establishing long-term careers within local government.

One such successful ex-apprentice is Jack Gosling, who started as a civil engineering apprentice and now holds a full-time role with Westmorland and Furness Council within the network management team.

Mr Gosling said: "I decided to choose an apprenticeship purely for the fact I could earn whilst I learned.

"Having an income whilst learning motivated me more to excel in my work which brings the best out of me.

"I would fully recommend taking an apprenticeship with the council due to the way you are treated, respected and feel you are really part of a team.

"Whenever I was in a position where I was unsure or less confident, there was always someone to help."

Francis Armstrong, from being a support worker, is now undertaking a BA social work apprenticeship with Cumberland Council.

She said: "The benefits of apprenticeships are massive, personally and professionally.

"Through the support and encouragement of colleagues, you develop new skills and knowledge every day."

The apprenticeship team have several drop-in events planned across the county.

Visit the Cumbria apprenticeships website to see the full event schedule.

Councillor Sue Sanderson, Westmorland and Furness Council’s cabinet member for children’s services, education and skills, said: "Apprenticeships offer a fantastic opportunity for people to earn while they learn.

"Many of our apprentices go on to secure permanent employment and further training.

“Part of our council mission is to ensure young people and adults are equipped with relevant tools and skills to pursue the life they want to live and have access to a rich and varied choice of local employment opportunities."

Councillor Elaine Lynch, Cumberland Council’s executive member for lifelong learning and development, said: "We offer apprenticeships ranging from level two to level four, providing a platform for personal and professional growth.

"We invite aspiring individuals to seize this opportunity to kickstart a fulfilling career with us."

The councils are also throwing their weight behind ‘Cumbria Careers Day’, an initiative of Cumbria LEP, celebrated as part of National Careers Week.